Do Ford and Mazda share platforms?
For years, Ford and Mazda have had a close relationship in the automotive industry, leading many to wonder whether the two companies share platforms for their vehicles. This article explores the history of their collaboration, the platforms they have shared, and the current state of their partnership.
The History of Ford and Mazda's Partnership
Ford and Mazda began their partnership in the 1970s, with Ford acquiring a stake in Mazda in 1979. Over the years, this partnership grew, with Ford eventually owning a controlling interest in Mazda by the 1990s. This collaboration allowed the two companies to share resources, technology, and platforms, resulting in cost savings and innovative vehicle designs.
Shared Platforms Between Ford and Mazda
During the height of their partnership, Ford and Mazda shared several platforms for their vehicles. Some notable examples include:
- Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute: These compact SUVs were built on the same platform and shared many components, although they had distinct styling and branding.
- Ford Ranger and Mazda B-Series: The Ford Ranger pickup truck and Mazda B-Series were essentially the same vehicle with minor differences in design and features.
- Ford Fusion and Mazda6: The first-generation Ford Fusion shared its platform with the Mazda6, benefiting from Mazda's expertise in lightweight and sporty vehicle design.
The End of Platform Sharing
In the late 2000s, Ford began divesting its stake in Mazda, and by 2015, the two companies had largely gone their separate ways. As a result, platform sharing between Ford and Mazda has significantly decreased. Today, both companies develop their own platforms independently, focusing on their unique brand identities and technological advancements.
Conclusion
While Ford and Mazda once shared platforms extensively during their decades-long partnership, this practice has largely ended as the two companies have moved in different directions. However, the legacy of their collaboration can still be seen in some older models that benefited from their shared expertise. For car enthusiasts and buyers, understanding this history provides valuable insight into the evolution of these two iconic automotive brands.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened between Ford and Mazda?
Once The Great Recession struck, Ford gradually began selling off its Mazda shares, and by 2014 Ford's investment was just 2.1%. At the end of Q3 in 2015, Ford fully divested its interest. Although automaker affiliation is typically the way forward in the modern automotive industry, Mazda generally goes it alone.
Is the Mazda 2.5 engine made by Ford?
The Duratec 25, also known as the Mazda L engine, is a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder from Ford Motor used to power midsize cars, cargo vans and sport utility vehicles, also known as SUVs.
Does the Ford Ranger use a Mazda engine?
Mazda-based (1998–2011)
The first-generation Mazda-based Ranger was produced from 1998 to 2006, while the second generation was produced from 2006 to 2011; the latter was derived from the Mazda BT-50 (which replaced the Mazda B series).
Are Ford and Mazda connected?
Mazda is owned by the Mazda Motor Corporation, based near Hiroshima, Japan. Back in 1979, the Ford Motor Company bought shares in the company and owned over 33 percent of the company by 1995. By 2015, the shares were sold and the Ford Motor Company no longer owned part of Mazda.
Does Mazda still use Ford parts?
However, disagreements about direction and a significant recession led Ford to begin selling off its interest in Mazda during the 21st century. The exact reasons why will be discussed further down. As of 2014, the partnership officially ended.
Which Fords have Mazda engines?
Ford has developed an Atkinson cycle variant of the Mazda L5 engine for use in the Ford Fusion Hybrid, Ford Escape Hybrid and Ford Maverick Hybrid vehicles. They also used this variant under the Duratec engine family name in the 2010-2019 Ford Fusion. This engine was named one of Ward's 10 Best Engines for 2010.
Who builds engines for Mazda?
Mazda manufactures both piston and Wankel “rotary” engines. The company's Mexican subsidiary is responsible for producing the gasoline and diesel engines used in Mazda vehicles. Over the years, Japanese automakers have engineered a wide range of engines, including four-cylinder units and robust V6 mills.
Does Ford still own a share of Mazda?
Does Ford Own Mazda? No, Ford does not own Mazda. Mazda is its own company. Ford and Mazda have had close ties over the years, including a current 50/50 joint venture in Thailand.
Who makes engines for Mazda?
Mazda manufactures both piston and Wankel “rotary” engines. The company's Mexican subsidiary is responsible for producing the gasoline and diesel engines used in Mazda vehicles. Over the years, Japanese automakers have engineered a wide range of engines, including four-cylinder units and robust V6 mills.
Is the Skyactiv engine made by Ford?
Ford had ownership in Mazda for many years and they shared designs. Mazda still built the engine and the Skyactiv's are mostly of Mazda origin. It's a great engine and with proper maintenance will last a long time. Even the Ford based 2.5L was a good motor.
